The Physical Damage From Addiction Can Be Deadly

A person can experience difficult and even deadly physical effects from their substance use disorder. These can start soon after drug usage begins, and typically become more of a risk as the person increases the amount of drugs they take and the length of time they take them.

Side effects from drug addiction can include:

Changes in blood pressure
Headaches
Elevated or decreased heart rates
Nausea and vomiting
Constipation and diarrhea
Difficulty thinking
Shaking
Hallucinations
Paranoia
Losing consciousness
Damage to organs, including the heart, liver, and lungs
Slurred speech
Loss of memory

Short- and long-term health effects can vary depending on the type of drug, how much and how often it’s taken and the person’s general health. Overall, the effects of drug misuse and dependence can be far-reaching. They can impact almost every organ in the human body.

Please seek help if you are struggling with an addiction? You don't have to do this alone.